Many emotional, behavioural and cognitive problems arise due to faulty information processing within the brain. Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) or Brain mapping is an investigative technique that provides detailed information about how the brain works at rest. Human brain is composed of billions of neurons which communicate with each other. QEEG allows a sneak peek into this communication and if abnormal, the extent of this abnormality.
Human brain is a highly specialized organ where different jobs are assigned to different parts which regularly communicate and collaborate with each other. This communication between brain cells is organized in different rhythms which in turn subserve different functions. Evidence suggests that specific brainwaves dominate specific brain states. For example, slower brain waves are normally seen during sleep or deep relaxation but if they become dominant during wakeful periods this might be a cause for concern (see below)
QEEG analysis given us detailed understanding of whether or not there is excess or deficiency of specific brainwaves and in which part of brain. Neuropsychiatric conditions are traditionally considered the manifestation of imbalance of different chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Similar imbalance in the brainwaves is seen in psychiatric conditions and QEEG allows us to objectively see and measure these imbalances. Research has proved this for Depression, which is associated with slowing of left side of brain. This is the reason why neuromodulation techniques which can target this brain region specifically such as TMS and Neurofeedback work so well in cases where traditional medications have failed.
Traditionally, electroencephalography (EEG) has been used in the diagnosis of epilepsy and more recently for diagnosis of brain injury. QEEG is an advancement on EEG technique and allows sophisticated analysis of different brainwaves which helps to target specific brain locations or specific neural networks with brain training.
Neurofeedback is a type of brain training with the advantage that whatever the brain learns during this process stays with it for longer periods. Long term research into Neurofeedback training has shown that benefits of training are seen months, years and decades after the training is over.
Another advantage of QEEG is that it allows us to see how well the brain is working as a system. It has been shown to be useful in conditions such as Mild Traumatic Brain injury or Post-concussion syndrome, where normal MRI or CT do not show any abnormalities. QEEG has also shown abnormal connectivity patterns in cases of Autism Spectrum disorders which can then be addressed with neurofeedback treatment. We at ZenWaves clinic routinely offer QEEG services to our clients who are doing Neurofeedback training with us.
